Delaware farmers' market season soon to begin

Thursday

Mar 28, 2013 at 10:48 AMMar 28, 2013 at 11:00 AM

The Delaware farmers' market season will launch next month featuring new markets in Dover and Bellefonte, with farmers and markets fresh off a record-setting sales season of nearly $2 million last year.

Staff Reports

The Delaware farmers' market season will launch next month featuring new markets in Dover and Bellefonte, with farmers and markets fresh off a record-setting sales season of nearly $2 million last year.

Twenty-five local farmers' markets will be open during the spring and summer this year, offering fresh Delaware produce and other products as they come into season. The Milton Farmers' Market will kick off the season on April 19, with 13 markets to start in May, nine in June and one in July, with one market operating year-round. This is the eighth year of Delaware's farmers' market program.

The success of the locally-run markets is due to a strong interest in healthy eating and locally sourced food, Delaware leaders said. Last year saw explosive growth in the number of markets, growing from 16 locations to 29. This year includes new markets in Bellefonte and in downtown Dover.

"The strength of our farmers' market program benefits farmers and consumers alike, making the agricultural industry strong and supporting local jobs," Governor Jack Markell said. "These gathering places help make our communities more vibrant and lively."

The farmers' markets provide a significant economic boost to Delaware agriculture. Last year, farmers' markets sold $1.96 million worth of goods at 29 locations. The 2011 season featured 16 market sites and brought in $1.8 million, while the 2010 season had 14 sites and $1.3 million in sales.

"Each of these markets helps bring people face-to-face with their local farmers, which broadens Delawareans' understanding of agriculture and deepens their appreciation for farmers' contributions," said Secretary of Agriculture Ed Kee. "They are a joy to visit and see how consumers and farmers learn from each other."

Depending on the vendors, other products such as cut flowers, bedding plants, baked goods, jams, jellies or honey may also be offered. Consumers also will be able to attend special programs and pick up information on nutrition, community events and recipes.

The farmers' markets are supported and coordinated by the Delaware Department of Agriculture, but are funded and hosted by local groups, organizations and municipal governments.

For a complete list of farmers' markets and on-the-farm markets, along with opening dates and hours, visit dda.delaware.gov.

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